This Florida Family Will Never Be Able To Celebrate Marriage Equality

Even as we applaud the growing number of states embracing marriage equality, there are couples for whom it comes to late: Equality Florida has shared the tragic story of Liz Molina, who passed away this week before Florida lifted its ban on same-sex marriage and before she could be recognized as a wife and mother.

Liz, 35, succumbed to cervical cancer on Monday, just days before before her partner Joan Rodriguez is due to give birth to their son, Liam.

Liz’s life insurance was canceled, because they were not married, she was unable to receive treatments for four months.

Had they been able to legally marry, Liz would have had access to health insurance denied to her because the couple was not recognized as family. Liz would also be listed on the birth certificate of the son who will be born within days of her passing.